Nature Lover
AVAILABLE: Year-Round
Nature Lover
AVAILABLE: Year-Round
Crowders Mountain, a monadnock of enduring quartzite, rises proudly within the Kings Pinnacle ridge. Standing at 1,625 feet, this iconic peak in Crowders Mountain State Park beckons nature lovers with its rugged cliffs and expansive rock faces. A hiker's haven and a climber's challenge, the summit unveils panoramic vistas, epitomizing the natural allure that defines this cherished North Carolina destination.
Experience the beauty of meticulously landscaped gardens at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Admire themed gardens, fountains, and art installations, creating a harmonious blend of horticulture and artistic expression.
Fall Foliage Retreat
AVAILABLE: 9/1 – 11/25
Immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn with crisp air, vibrant leaves, and cozy seasonal treats.
Take a scenic drive through Gaston County’s most picturesque fall foliage spots.
Hike Crowders Mountain or the Carolina Thread Trail for breathtaking views.
Sip on seasonal drinks at a local café or craft brewery.
Stay in a charming place to stay.
Thrill Seeker
AVAILABLE: Year-Round
Adrenaline junkies, get ready! From high-speed ziplines to off-road excitement, Gaston County has it all.
Tackle a high ropes course and zipline at The U.S. National Whitewater Center.
Feel the rush of wakeboarding or whitewater rafting on the Catawba River.
Ride the off-road trails at Carolina Adventure World.
End the day with craft brews and live music at a local hotspot.
Outdoor Adventurer
AVAILABLE: Year-Round
Explore rugged trails, paddle scenic rivers, and embrace the great outdoors.
Hike to the summit of Crowders Mountain for stunning panoramic views.
Bike the Carolina Thread Trail for an exhilarating ride through nature.
Paddle along the Catawba River and spot local wildlife.
Nature Lover
AVAILABLE: Year-Round
Reconnect with nature as you hike scenic trails, spot wildlife, and unwind in serene outdoor retreats.
Hike through the lush trails of Crowders Mountain for breathtaking views.
Explore Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s stunning floral displays.
Discover native birds and wildlife at Rankin Lake Park.
Christmas Vacation
AVAILABLE: 12/1 – 12/25
Celebrate the season with dazzling lights, holiday markets, and festive cheer.
Experience Christmas Town USA in McAdenville, known for its magical holiday lights.
Shop local at festive holiday markets.
Ice skate and sledding and other winter activities.
Stay in a cozy hotel with holiday charm.
On The Water
AVAILABLE: MMid March – Mid October
Paddle, boat, and relax along Gaston County’s beautiful rivers and lakes.
Kayak or paddleboard at Goat Island Park.
Enjoy a scenic canoe ride along the South Fork River.
Unwind with a waterfront meal at a local restaurant.
VISIT GASTON COUNTY, NC
A visit to Gaston County, North Carolina offers gorgeous landscapes, charming towns, abundant parks, plentiful trails and easy river access. These qualities define Gaston County and make it a prime location for outdoor activities and recreation.
Each one of our 13 communities provides numerous opportunities to explore. From Belmont to Bessemer City and from Cherryville to Cramerton, each town offers a unique atmosphere for you to indulge in dining, craft beverages, shopping or art & culture and history & heritage along with sports, entertainment and special events.
Whether you hike, bike, paddle or climb, the natural spaces in Gaston County don’t disappoint. While most people are familiar with Crowders Mountain and its amazing views from two towering peaks, there are many other iconic sites to see in and around our county. Rankin Lake Park, South Fork River, Catawba River, Poston Park, Rocky Branch Park, the and the Whitewater Center are all available for the public to access throughout the year. Miles of river waters and densely forested single tracks beckon those who seek quiet solitude or the thrill of an adrenaline rush.
Gaston County is rapidly becoming the North Carolina Piedmont’s premier outdoor recreation destination. We invite you to come experience it for yourself and to unwind, unplug and to connect with our local hospitality industry partners.
WEATHER IN GASTON COUNTY, NC
Gaston County, North Carolina enjoys four distinct seasons. Spring has moderate temperatures from the mid-60s to the mid-80s. Summer is hot and humid with highs in the upper-80s to low-90s. Fall high temperatures average in the 70s. Winter is mild and a day in the 60s is not uncommon. The rainiest months are January and March while the driest months are April and November.
GETTING HERE
I-85 runs straight through Gaston County linking it to cities in the Northeast, Southwest, and Midwest, while I-40, less than one hour north, provides an important east/west link with coast-to-coast access.
